One big thing: Rob Van Dam compares pro wrestling to porn
WWE Hall of Famer Rob Van Dam stirred the pot with a provocative comparison between professional wrestling and adult entertainment on “The Black Announce Table” podcast.
• RVD: “Wrestling is porn…People watch it to escape. They want to believe in everything they’re watching.”
• He emphasized the importance of wrestlers staying in character and maintaining the audience’s fantasy.
• Van Dam criticized the current state of wrestler training, comparing it unfavorably to his own experiences.
Why it matters
RVD’s comments highlight ongoing debates about:
• The nature of professional wrestling as entertainment
• The importance of maintaining kayfabe in modern wrestling
• The evolution of wrestler training and performance standards
By the numbers
• RVD is a 1-time WWE Champion
• He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2021
• Van Dam has over 30 years of experience in professional wrestling
What they’re saying
RVD on the importance of staying in character:
“All eyes are on you” until a wrestler gets behind the curtain. “That’s what’s missing right now.”
The big picture
Van Dam’s comparison underscores the ongoing tension in professional wrestling between:
• Presenting a believable, immersive experience for fans
• Acknowledging the scripted nature of the performances
• Balancing traditional wrestling values with modern entertainment expectations
What’s next
As the wrestling industry continues to evolve, debates about performance styles, training methods, and audience engagement are likely to persist.
What do you think about RVD’s comparison of wrestling to porn? Do you agree that modern wrestlers need to focus more on staying in character? Leave a comment below with your thoughts on this controversial take.
